Khulna: Khulna city BNP President Advocate S.M. Shafiqul Alam Mona today emphasized the courageous act of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, who declared the country’s independence and called for resistance against the Pakistani occupation forces in 1971, despite significant risks to his own life and the safety of his family. He made these remarks while serving as the chief guest at a discussion and prayer meeting held to commemorate the 45th martyrdom anniversary of BNP founder, former President, proclaimer of multi-party democracy, and Bir Uttam Ziaur Rahman.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the programme was organized by the Khulna city and district units of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) at the party office on K.D. Ghosh Road, as part of a 10-day observance programme undertaken by the city BNP. Mona highlighted that Ziaur Rahman was awarded the title of Bir Uttam after independence in recognition of his significant bravery and contribution to the Liberation War.
Mona further discussed Ziaur Rahman’s role in restoring democracy and ensuring press freedom, noting that he reintroduced multi-party democracy following the Sepoy-People’s Revolution of November 7, 1975, and ensured full freedom of the press. Referring to former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia’s political journey, he mentioned her emergence as a national leader through the movement to restore democracy against military ruler Hussain Muhammad Ershad, and her subsequent service as an elected Prime Minister.
He called upon party leaders and activists to maintain unity, alleging that anti-independence and anti-democratic forces continue to engage in conspiracies to hinder the country’s progress. Mona urged all democratic forces to remain vigilant and united to counter such efforts.
The event concluded with special prayers for the eternal peace of Ziaur Rahman’s departed soul and the welfare of the nation.